UK encryption proposals ‘breach’ human rights

Government warned to back off

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The British Government could be in breach of Human Rights legislation if it proceeds with its encryption policy, a pressure group warned today. Cyber-Rights & Cyber-Liberties (UK) made the claim in a letter to Prime Minister Tony Blair. The letter says that too much emphasis is placed on the value of encryption in support of business interests while not enough attention is given to the interests and concerns of consumers and private citizens. Mr. Nicholas Bohm, E-Commerce Policy Adviser for Cyber-Rights & Cyber-Liberties (UK) said: "It would be a grave embarrassment, both for the Government and for Britain's position in the world of electronic commerce, for the Government's E-Commerce Bill to be found inconsistent with the Human Rights Act." The cyber-rights group is worried the proposed legislation could remove important civil rights and individual protections. ®